Former NRG Omaha Cluster Ushers in New Leadership

Why It Matters

The appointments give Usher Media experienced local talent to steer the newly acquired cluster, strengthening its market position and advertising appeal in Omaha’s competitive radio landscape.

Key Takeaways

• Stacie McElligott becomes Usher Media Assistant GM.
• Megan Rieder promoted to Sweet 98.5 Program Director.
• Alyssa Siebken appointed Power 106.9 Program Director.
• Leadership changes follow Usher Media’s acquisition of NRG cluster.

Pulse Analysis

Usher Media’s recent purchase of the NRG Omaha cluster reflects a broader wave of consolidation in mid‑size radio markets, where owners seek scale to negotiate better rates with national advertisers and to share resources across stations. By integrating Sweet 98.5 and Power 106.9 under a unified corporate umbrella, Usher Media can streamline sales operations, cross‑promote content, and leverage data analytics to fine‑tune audience targeting. The acquisition also positions the company to experiment with digital audio streaming and podcast extensions, keeping pace with listeners’ shifting consumption habits.

The newly appointed leaders bring deep local roots and operational expertise that are critical for maintaining listener loyalty. McElligott’s 14‑year tenure at NRG covered sales, production, and on‑air roles, giving her a holistic view of station economics and audience engagement. Rieder’s familiarity with Sweet 98.5’s heritage and Siebken’s experience as an on‑air personality at Power 106.9 equip them to craft programming that resonates with Omaha’s diverse demographics while attracting local advertisers. Their promotions also signal a commitment to internal talent development, which can boost morale and reduce turnover in a market where talent poaching is common.

For the Omaha advertising ecosystem, these leadership changes could translate into more innovative ad solutions and community‑focused initiatives. With seasoned program directors at the helm, stations are likely to expand live events, localized contests, and branded content that appeal to regional brands seeking authentic connections. Moreover, Usher Media’s consolidated platform may invest in advanced audience measurement tools, offering advertisers clearer ROI metrics. As radio continues to compete with streaming services, such strategic leadership and operational integration are essential for sustaining revenue growth and preserving the medium’s relevance in the local media mix.